National Spirit of ’45 Day Honors The Men and Women of The World War II Generation

National Spirit of ’45 Day is observed on the second Sunday in August each year, coinciding with the anniversary of the day President Harry Truman announced World War II was over on August 14, 1945 — a day Life Magazine has called “a hinge of history…the birth of a new America.”

National Spirit of ’45 Day honors the men and women of the World War II generation. There were more than 16 million in uniform that stepped forward to defend America and its freedoms during World War II. We not only honor these brave men and women who served in uniform but also those who supported them on the home front and worked on the farms, in the offices, and the factories that supplied the arsenal needed to fight and win the war.

More than 400,000 young Americans made the ultimate sacrifice, never to return home.

Their courage, shared sacrifice, can-do attitude, and service to country are why they are known as America’s “greatest generation.” They came from big cities and small towns, rich and poor, from every racial and ethnic group.

And when the war ended on August 14, 1945, these same young men and women helped rebuild America into a superpower. They rebuilt this country to assure a better future for both friend and former enemy alike, and for future generations.

Those from the “greatest generation” are in their 80‘s and 90’s now. And one day soon they will all have passed on into history…

Click here to view other United States Military Holidays and Observances.